HINT Synonyms: 239 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'hint' distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of hint are imply , insinuate , intimate , and suggest . While all these words mean "to convey an idea indirectly," hint implies the use of slight or remote suggestion with a minimum of overt statement. // hinted that she might get the job

Q: How are the words 'imply' and 'suggest' related as synonyms of 'hint'?

Imply is close to suggest but may indicate a more definite or logical relation of the unexpressed idea to the expressed. // measures implying that bankruptcy was imminent

Q: When is 'insinuate' a more appropriate choice than 'hint'?

The meanings of insinuate and hint largely overlap; however, insinuate applies to the conveying of a usually unpleasant idea in a sly underhanded manner. // insinuated that there were shady dealings

Q: When might 'intimate' be a better fit than 'hint'?

The words intimate and hint can be used in similar contexts, but intimate stresses delicacy of suggestion without connoting any lack of candor. // intimates that there is more to the situation than meets the eye

Q: In what contexts can 'suggest' take the place of 'hint'?

While in some cases nearly identical to hint , suggest may stress putting into the mind by association of ideas, awakening of a desire, or initiating a train of thought. // a film title that suggests its subject matter

hint 1 of 2

noun

ˈhint

Definition of hint next

as in indication

a slight or indirect pointing to something (as a solution or explanation) can't you give me some hint as to where you're taking me?

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in glimmer

an almost imperceptible sign of something there was the slightest hint of scorn in her voice

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as in tip

a piece of advice or useful information especially from an expert some helpful hints for cleaning carpet stains

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as in sprinkling

a very small amount I detect just a hint of mint in the sauce

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hint

2 of 2

verb

as in to indicate

to convey an idea indirectly kept hinting that she wouldn't mind an invitation to spend the weekend at their beach house

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word hint distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of hint are imply, insinuate, intimate, and suggest. While all these words mean "to convey an idea indirectly," hint implies the use of slight or remote suggestion with a minimum of overt statement.

hinted that she might get the job

How are the words imply and suggest related as synonyms of hint?

Imply is close to suggest but may indicate a more definite or logical relation of the unexpressed idea to the expressed.

measures implying that bankruptcy was imminent

When is insinuate a more appropriate choice than hint?

The meanings of insinuate and hint largely overlap; however, insinuate applies to the conveying of a usually unpleasant idea in a sly underhanded manner.

insinuated that there were shady dealings

When might intimate be a better fit than hint?

The words intimate and hint can be used in similar contexts, but intimate stresses delicacy of suggestion without connoting any lack of candor.

intimates that there is more to the situation than meets the eye

In what contexts can suggest take the place of hint?

While in some cases nearly identical to hint, suggest may stress putting into the mind by association of ideas, awakening of a desire, or initiating a train of thought.

a film title that suggests its subject matter

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of hint

Noun

Dried oregano: Earthy and a little peppery, oregano has a slight bitterness that balances the hint of sweetness from the garlic and onion powder. —

Amanda Holstein, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2024 In recent years, Napa wineries have hosted the event in April, welcoming the gentle warmth and hint of summer, while Healdsburg in Sonoma County follows up in mid-July, allowing guests to bask in the sunny California days and cool evenings. —

Noel Burgess, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

Verb

The intrigue: Some Trump allies have even hinted that his favorite policy — across-the-board tariffs — might not actually have to be implemented. —

Dave Lawler, Axios, 26 Oct. 2024 On Wednesday, Musk hinted that even though the Roadster is still TBD, Tesla might have bigger plans in store, which might make private equity billionaire Peter Thiel very pleased. —

Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hint

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hint

Noun

Getty Images If her smile is any indication, Biles is loving her new bob—and so are fans.

Marci Robin, Allure, 21 Nov. 2024
At the same time, Israel may be less willing to bargain, especially with Trump in the White House, if his first time is any indication.

Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 21 Nov. 2024